Sugar production during the 2025–26 sugar season has recorded a strong and encouraging start, supported by adequate sugarcane availability and improved operational efficiency across major producing states. The steady pace of crushing indicates that the season is progressing in line with expectations.
As on December 15, 2025, cumulative sugar production across the country reached 78.25 lakh tonnes, marking a growth of around 28 per cent compared to 61.28 lakh tonnes produced during the corresponding period of the previous season. The number of sugar mills in operation stood at 478, marginally higher than the 477 mills crushing cane at the same time last year.
Field-level assessments suggest improved cane yields and better sugar recovery rates across key states as crushing operations gather momentum. Uttar Pradesh reported sugar production of 24.56 lakh tonnes by mid-December, reflecting an increase of 1.52 lakh tonnes over last year. Maharashtra registered a significant improvement, with 187 mills in operation and sugar output reaching 31.79 lakh tonnes, compared to 16.78 lakh tonnes during the same period last season. Karnataka also recorded faster crushing and higher production, with output rising to 15.80 lakh tonnes.
A state-wise comparison of sugar production for the current season and the corresponding period last year is presented below. The figures are net of sugar diverted towards ethanol production.
State-wise Sugar Production Status (as on December 15)
| State / Zone | Operating Mills (2025) | Sugar Production 2025 (Lakh Tonnes) | Operating Mills (2024) | Sugar Production 2024 (Lakh Tonnes) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Uttar Pradesh | 118 | 24.56 | 121 | 23.04 |
| Maharashtra | 187 | 31.79 | 183 | 16.78 |
| Karnataka | 74 | 15.80 | 76 | 13.85 |
| Gujarat | 14 | 1.82 | 14 | 1.80 |
| Tamil Nadu | 11 | 0.50 | 5 | 0.75 |
| Others | 74 | 3.78 | 78 | 5.06 |
| All India | 478 | 78.25 | 477 | 61.28 |
Despite the positive production outlook, the sugar industry continues to face financial stress due to weak sugar prices. Ex-mill sugar prices in major producing states have fallen well below the cost of production, with prices in Maharashtra currently ranging between ₹3,600 and ₹3,660 per quintal. In this context, an immediate revision of the minimum selling price (MSP) of sugar, in line with the increased cost of production, has become critical. Industry stakeholders believe that such a revision would help restore financial viability, ensure timely payments to sugarcane farmers, and support the overall sustainability of the sector without placing any additional fiscal burden on the government.
